Ethiopian Airlines signs with Bombardier for Q400 and gets ASF status

The aircraft will be leased from Middle East-based Palma Holding, which has agreed to buy up to eight – four firm, with four options – at a list price of US$282 million.
Mesfin Tasew, COO of Ethiopian Airlines, said: “Ethiopia is a mountainous country. We needed an aeroplane that can fly high over the mountains. Initially we had some airports that were gravel, although most were asphalt, runways. So we needed an aeroplane that could handle both. The Q400 is the ideal choice as it fits our operating environment.
“Originally we intended to fly them regionally, but we found their economics very attractive and extended their use to neighbouring countries, flying to Nairobi, Mombasa, Entebbe, Dar es Salaam and so on. We are extremely satisfied with the reliability of the aeroplane.”
Ethiopian Airlines was also named as an authorised service facility (ASF) for commercial aircraft on the continent.he airline can now perform line and heavy maintenance on Q400 and Q400 NextGen turboprop aircraft under the Bombardier ASF banner.

Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of modern aircraft, and performs complete aircraft, as well as engine and component overhaul and repair services from facilities at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. The facility employs an all-Ethiopian workforce of over 750 licensed technicians and support staff.

“Ethiopian Airlines is one of Africa’s most respected airlines and a valued Bombardier customer. Their commitment to excellence both in operations and maintenance services will benefit our operator base in the region and beyond, as a part of our network,” said Éric Martel, president, customer services and specialised and amphibious aircraft, Bombardier Aerospace. “Through sustained investment and focus, we continue to expand our support services in Africa and are looking forward to this new chapter of our relationship with Ethiopian.”

“Ethiopian Airlines’ NextGen turboprops are proving their high value by delivering excellent passenger experience, operational flexibility and economics – confirming that they are excellent aircraft for operations in Africa,” said Tewolde Gebremariam, chief executive officer, Ethiopian Airlines: “As a newly appointed Authorized Service Facility for Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft, we welcome the opportunity to expand our relationship with Bombardier, and to provide maintenance services to other carriers as an increasing number of these modern turboprops take to the skies in our geographically diverse continent.”